A Very Important Invitation – For VIP’s Only with Natalie McCullough

9th December 2024

A Very Important Invitation – For VIP’S Only is a project put together by the Suffolk GP Federation. Cervical screening (smear test) can be difficult for many people. You may feel anxious or worried about attending, this could be for many reasons and may include:

• a mental health condition
• previous cervical screening experience(s)
• previous traumatic experience(s) sexual and/or domestic violence

In 2023, data showed that about 4.6 million people aged 25 to 64 in England (1 in 3 people) have never been screened for cervical cancer or have not taken up their latest invitation to book appointments for screening. This is a real concern, as we know that by attending for regular screening 99.8% of cervical cancer in the UK is preventable.

The Suffolk GP Federation provides a screening service that puts its patients at the centre of its care, and we will listen to what you need.

You may also wish to consider asking for an appointment just to talk about what happens during the screening first (you do not have to have the test at this appointment). You will have a female nurse. She will be kind and gentle. You can bring a friend. You will be offered a chaperone.

Requesting an appointment is easy – you can book direct through the link or contact your own GP practice.

It is important you let us know of any extra support or concerns you may have so we can provide this at your appointment and allow you to feel safe. You are in control.

The service is being managed by Suffolk GP Federation on behalf of GP practices and includes evening and weekend screening appointments via the Suffolk GP+ service. Clinics running from bases in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Haverhill, Stowmarket, Hadleigh, Eye and Wickham Market. https://suffolkfed.org.uk/healthcare-…

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